This Hearty Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and robust flavor. Loaded with savory sausage, tender pasta, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs, it’s a soul-warming dish ideal for cooler days or when you need a satisfying, nourishing meal. This soup brings the essence of Italian cuisine into your kitchen with simple yet rich ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a one-pot wonder that is both filling and easy to make. With its combination of protein, vegetables, and pasta, it’s a balanced meal on its own. The flavorful Italian sausage adds depth while the tender pasta and vegetables create a delightful texture in every bite. It’s also highly customizable, making it ideal for various dietary preferences.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
Olive oil
Carrots
Celery
Onion
Garlic
Diced tomatoes
Chicken broth
Small pasta (like ditalini)
Fresh spinach
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)

directions

In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns.
Once the sausage is cooked through, remove any excess grease.
Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Add pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
Stir in fresh spinach and cook just until wilted.
Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
Low-Carb Option: Omit pasta and add extra vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese before serving for a creamier texture.

storage/reheating

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
If the pasta absorbs too much liquid during storage, add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

FAQs

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta or replace the pasta with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free version.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta, as pasta can become mushy when thawed. Add cooked pasta fresh when reheating.

What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage (mild or spicy) is ideal, but you can use chicken or turkey sausage as a leaner alternative.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer all ingredients except pasta and spinach to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Add pasta and spinach during the last 30 minutes.

What kind of pasta should I use?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow, or small shells work best in this soup.

Can I add beans to this soup?

Absolutely. Cannellini or kidney beans are a great addition for extra protein and heartiness.

Is this soup spicy?

It depends on the type of sausage used. Use mild sausage for a gentle flavor or hot sausage for a spicier soup.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans can be added to enhance the nutritional value.

How do I thicken the soup?

Let it simmer uncovered a bit longer or mash some of the vegetables and pasta for a thicker consistency.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge. Consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it when reheating to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Hearty Italian Sausage Soup is a delightful combination of bold flavors and comforting ingredients. Whether you’re serving it to guests or preparing a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With simple steps, easy customizations, and rich flavor, it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.

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Author: Mariem
Prep Time: 1 hr
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins
Yield: 12 rolls
Category: Breakfast / Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

These Glazed Lemon Sweet Rolls are pillowy soft, bursting with citrus flavor, and finished with a sweet lemony glaze — perfect for brunch, holidays, or a refreshing dessert.

Instructions

Combine yeast, warm milk, and sugar. Let sit 5 min.
Add butter, egg, flour, salt, and lemon zest. Knead into dough.
Let rise until doubled, roll out and fill with lemon sugar mixture.
Roll into a log, slice, and arrange in baking dish.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 min.
Drizzle with lemon glaze while warm.

Notes

You can prep these the night before and bake fresh in the morning.

Hearty Italian Sausage Soup